COLD FORMED STEEL SPECIAL DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS BASIC INFORMATIONWhat Are The Special Design Considerations for Cold-Formed Steel?

Structural design of cold-formed members is in many respects more challenging than the design of hot rolled, relatively thick, structural members. A primary difference is cold-formed members are more susceptible to buckling due to their limited thickness.

The fact that the yield strength of the steel is increased in the cold-forming process creates a dilemma for the designer. Ignoring the increased strength is conservative, but results in larger members, hence more costly, than is needed if the increased yield strength is considered.

Corrosion creates a greater percent loss of cross section than is the case for thick members. All cold-formed steel members are coated to protect steel from corrosion during the storage and transportation phases of construction as well as for the life of the product.

Because of its effectiveness, hot-dipped zinc galvanizing is most commonly used. Structural and non-structural framing members are required to have a minimum metallic coating that complies with ASTM A1003/A1003M, as follows:

■ structural members – G60 and
■ non-structural members G40 or equivalent minimum.

To prevent galvanic corrosion special care is needed to isolate the cold-formed members from dissimilar metals, such as copper.

The design, manufacture and use of cold-formed steel framing is governed by standards that are developed and maintained by the American Iron and Steel Institute along with organizations such as ASTM, and referenced in the building codes.

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